by Hermes Roberts

Created on: November 20, 2011   Last Updated: November 21, 2011

Most people when they reach middle age or a 'certain age' as the French would say, begin to worry about their health. Every ache is viewed suspiciously as the beginning of a serious illness. But the most feared health problem among the aging is memory loss. It is feared more than cancer, diabetes or heart disease. Diseases of the brain like dementia and Alzheimer's are very debilitating to the elderly.

These are some tips for preserving an aging brain. You can help prevent memory lapses. Did you take that tablet already? Get a tablet dispenser with slots marked for each day of the week. Take a list to the grocery store. Keep a small writing pad and jot things down. You may have concentration problems. Do not multitask. Concentrate on one thing at a time. With an aging brain, your thinking may have slowed down. Do not become anxious and rush things or put yourself in a situation where you have to rush.

Here are some more tips for preserving an aging brain.

*  See that you keep your cholesterol in balance. Keep your 'bad' LDL cholesterol low and the 'good' HDL cholesterol high. The fatty substance could block some of the arteries in your brain and cause problems.

*  Control your blood pressure. High blood pressure could damage the blood vessels of an aging brain.

*  Keep your blood sugar low. Diabetes double the odds for having memory problems.

*  To preserve an aging brain maintain a healthy weight. Extra pounds can dim the thinking process.

*  To keep the whole body healthy, exercise is important and the same goes to preserve an aging brain. You should exercise three or more times a week. It doesn't have to be strenuous. Walking is good!

*  You should take depression seriously. If you have lack of interest, low moods and take no pleasure in anything, you should see your doctor. He or she may be able to get you a social worker who would help you find an interest.

*  Take time out to relax during the day. Read a book or do a crossword puzzle.

*  Get the necessary hours of sleep. A rested brain is less likely to be forgetful and confused.

*  Try to have a diet of fish three times a week. The Omega 3 in salmon, sardines and mackerel cuts the risk of dementia by 47% and is a good way of preserving an aging brain.

*  Drink 100% fruit or vegetable juices as this lowers the odds for Alzheimer's by 76% and help to preserve an aging brain.

*  You must stimulate your brain in various ways. You can visit, call, write or email friends and family daily. You can play brain games or try something new. You can keep busy by volunteering at a hospital, play lawn ball or bowling. All these things help to preserve an aging brain.

*  Try to protect yourself from getting head injuries. Do not go on roller coasters and wear a helmet when you bike or ski. Do not smoke.

These are some tips for preserving an aging brain and they all are also essential to maintaining good health and a healthy body.

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